Zentek Ltd (TSXV: ZEN) appears to have downplayed what should be a major announcement for any venture-listed issuer. The company this morning provided an “update on battery technology development,” being carried out, revealing within the news release that it has partnered with one of the largest global automakers on research and development of its product.
The company has begun a four year research collaboration with the University of Toronto, where it is working with professors Mohini Sain and Ning Yan, as well as with the Ford Powertrain Engineering Research and Development Centre. Professor Sain is referred to as the Endowed Ford Motor Canada Chair in Sustainable Materials, while Yan is the Tier 1 Canada Research Chair in Sustainable Bioproducts.
The collaboration will look to test the use of advanced graphene materials in automotive battery components. Testing will analyze the use of graphene in cathodes, anode, electrolyte, and separators, in addition to Zentek’s own anode material that was developed by the firm, which involves a graphene-wrapped silicon anode material that is believed to be a replacement material for graphite within anodes.
“With the significant push toward electrification in North America, we are excited to be working with the team from U of T, who have worked with a number of international battery manufacturing companies. This is an important research project to seek to develop next generation graphene-based battery materials to potentially enhance energy density, increase charging rates and improve battery safety,” said Zentek CEO Greg Fenton.
The research project is said to be valued at $1.6 million, the funding for which includes $1.2 million from the Mitacs Accelerate program.
Zentek last traded at $2.27 on the TSX Venture.
Information for this briefing was found via Sedar and the companies mentioned. The author has no securities or affiliations related to this organization. Not a recommendation to buy or sell. Always do additional research and consult a professional before purchasing a security. The author holds no licenses.
